Three Tough Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

May 4, 2018

Almost in every interview, you will be asked a couple of questions that are somehow difficult. Usually, these are elimination questions. Elimination questions are questions asked by the interviewer to spot any red flags or warning signs that you are not a good fit for the company’s culture. John Smith for Jobs In GTA shares with us three tough interview questions and the proper why to answer them.

1. WHY DID YOU LEAVE YOUR PREVIOUS EMPLOYER?

This question helps the interviewer understand some aspects of your personality and behaviours. It also helps them know what really motivates you.

Here is how not to answer this question:

Do not criticize your previous boss or attach negative attributes to their name such as ignorant, unprofessional, lack of integrity, etc. Behavioural science found that when you attribute negative qualities to someone, others are more likely to perceive you with the same negative qualities.

Don’t focus too much on money-related issues. By doing so, you will present yourself as someone who is only motivated by money and not a long-term goal oriented or career-oriented, which is a warning sign of your commitment and loyalty.

Here is how to answer this question:

Emphasize the lack of career advancement opportunities or limited responsibilities.

If the previous employer went through some financial hardship or organizational restructure and you were downsized, clarify the matter and explain how you and other employees were downsized.

If you made a mistake, and it is inevitable that the interviewer will know the truth through reference checks, do not try to hide the incident, but take full ownership and explain how you were mistaken and how now you understand how you should have handled the situation.

2. WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 3 or 5 YEARS?

This is a tricky question as the interviewer is assessing how committed will you be to the company.

Here is how not to answer this question:

Do not respond saying that you see yourself not working for the organization, for example, “I want to start my own business”, or “I want to continue my full-time studies”.

Do not also show that you lack ambition by saying something like: “I see myself working in the same position.”

Here is how to answer this question:

The best way to handle this question is to reflect on the preassigned career advancement opportunities available at the company. For example, “becoming an expert in this field”, “handling bigger responsibilities.”

You can also mention how you want to continue your education if this is the case, but in a way that shows your commitment to the company. You can say: “I want to continue my part-time studies in my field and get to expand my knowledge, which of course will reflect on my performance at my job.

3. WHY DO YOU WANT TO JOIN OUR COMPANY?

Interviewers may ask this question for different reasons. They might want to see if you did your due diligence and learned about the company or what really motivates you.

Here is how not to answer this question:

To focus on yourself too much and avoid bragging or saying something like: “I always wanted to work with a company that appreciates my talent and unique skills.”

Do not confine your answer to the salary and benefits offered by the company.

Don’t project yourself as a desperate job seeker, who will accept any

Here is how to answer this question:

Link what you desire career-wise to what the company offers. For example, learning something new, working in a diverse company, working with an industry-leader to get the first-hand experience in your field.